Jim Lawrence Blog - Jim Lawrence Blog
  • Home
  • Spotlight On
  • Beautiful Homes
  • Meet The Team
  • Behind the Name
  • Our Showrooms
  • Visit Jim Lawrence Website
  • Made By Us
Home
Spotlight On
Beautiful Homes
Meet The Team
Behind the Name
Our Showrooms
Visit Jim Lawrence Website
Made By Us
  • Home
  • Spotlight On
  • Beautiful Homes
  • Meet The Team
  • Behind the Name
  • Our Showrooms
  • Visit Jim Lawrence Website
  • Made By Us
Jim Lawrence Blog - Jim Lawrence Blog
Meet The Team

Meet The Jim Lawrence Quality Control Team

Ever wondered how we test the stability of our glass shades, or how hardy our chains are? Have you pondered over how we monitor the perfect paint shade and ensure the trustworthiness of our nuts and bolts? We want you to be confident that your lights, sockets, switches and poles are the best they can be. Just as our products are made by hand, they’re checked by hand too. We caught up with Senior QC Engineer Nick Rogers to find out more about how we test and try our products under the meticulous eyes of our Quality Control team.

Firstly, can you tell us who makes up the team, and how you got into this line of work?

I am the Senior QC Engineer, Mark is Head of Engineering Quality, Lorraine and Shane are our QC Technicians and Harry operates as QC Support to check the glass.

Can you explain what the QC team do at Jim Lawrence?

Well, the overall aim of our job is very simple – to reduce the number of Free of Charge (FOC) items we send out to customer to replace faulty or damaged goods and to reduce the amount of scrap that we produce. If we’re successful, our customers are happy as they have better quality products and the company is happy that we’ve saved thousands of pounds worth of scrap.

There two sides to our QC. One is more of a Quality Assurance role where we come up with strategies to make the company more efficient and cost effective by looking at all the manufacturing procedures we do here to see how they can be monitored to find problems earlier on in the making process. Usually, the earlier you catch them, the easier it is to put right and the quicker we can give everyone the ‘heads up’. This way we prevent mistakes and ensure there is consistency. With a bit of training, everyone becomes their own QC team.

The other side of the job is to test our components and products to make sure they meet the required standards. To do this we work with our suppliers, other Jim Lawrence departments and our customers to get feedback, think of workarounds and solve problems.

 

Talk us through your typical working day.

I honestly don’t think there is such a thing as a typical day, which is one of the things I love about this job. Any plans you have are usually blown out of the water by about 10.30am! In QC you spend a lot of time looking at problems and how you can resolve them. You’re always asking yourself, is there a problem with this? Why? How did it pass QC first time round? What can I do about it? How can I correct it? How can I stop it happening again?

Every morning we have a meeting with our Returns Dept to go through the FOC orders to see why things are being returned and if there is a genuine quality issue that needs looking at. This is often the issue that dictates what we do for the rest of the day. If there is a problem, we may need to remove the product from sale until it is corrected.

Some days we might find that a shipment of components has arrived that we will sample check and find that they don’t meet our standards, so we have to work with the supplier to see if they can be returned or if we can rework them in the workshop. Other days there may be an issue with a piece of machinery that has affected the quality of a product, or a staff absence which has had a random effect. There is always something to keep you on your feet.

What’s the criteria you look at when testing our products?

Everything needs to be checked to make sure it complies UK standards and our own design specifications. First, we use our own judgement to look at products to make sure the finish is right and that it is consistent. Then we use a range of clever measuring devices to sample check products to make sure they have been made to the standard spec. It is up to us to work with the technical team to make sure the specs are up to date and followed by everyone in the company so that we are all working in the same way. The design team will have considered the durability of the product when designing it, so as long as the measurements comply, it’s a good test that it has been made properly.

What happens if products don’t pass QC?

The first thing we do is put them into ‘quarantine’ so they don’t get muddled up with the rest of the stock, while investigations are under way. If it is a component that is wrong, we have to talk to the supplier to resolve the issue and see if we can correct it in-house or send it back. If it is one of our products, we have to consider how many of them are wrong, whether we should send them back to the workshop to be re-worked or whether they will have to be scrapped. We also have to ask ourselves what we can do to stop the same problem happening again. Do we need new or better equipment? More training? Better components? A new design?

When it comes to more fragile items like glass, how do you go about testing a product without deliberately trying to break it? It must be a meticulous task.

Yes, we can’t go around smashing things. We have a special device that uses a magnet to measure the thickness of the neck of the glass, which is important as that is where you unscrew the shade to change the bulb or clean it. We also use Vernier gauges, calipers and micrometres to check other parts of the glass.

A lot of our job roles are hands on here at Jim Lawrence, but it must be really fun to pick apart our products all day. What’s the best part of the role?

I love the fact it is so varied. No two days are the same. I go home every day having learnt something new, so it is constantly challenging. It’s a funny thing, but no matter how much I think I know about our products and the issues that sometime arise, there is always something new! I enjoy working with the engineering and design teams to investigate issues and working out ways we can overcome them and it’s very satisfying when you get good customer feedback having solved a problem for someone.

With all your expertise, what would you say makes our lighting and homeware high quality?

You can see our products have heart and soul, that’s what makes them different from our competitors. They look and feel better because they are handmade. They may not be perfect, but in my book, they are all the better for it. You can see our products have been made with real care and attention. There are not that many places where you can buy something that has been individually hand forged or glass blown. And everyone, not just the makers, but everyone who works here, cares about our products.

 

Can you recommend some tips for customers when it comes to taking care of their items? For example, getting the most use out of a light.

A lot of thought and attention has gone into making sure the raw materials are as robust as possible. I’d say you should treat your Jim Lawrence product like a fine wine. It will work happily for years in your room with gentle handling and a bit of care and attention – like using warm soapy water to keep it in tip top condition. If you are worried handling a light, make sure there is someone there to help you.

Finally, what’s the best part of working for a family business like Jim Lawrence?

I like the fact that everyone is very approachable, unlike more corporate businesses, and that you really get a sense of working together. Jim Lawrence is special because here you are part of a fairly small but very dedicated team of people who incredibly good at their jobs and are passionate about what they do. They are always prepared to go that extra mile to make sure our customers are happy with the products we make.

You can browse all of our hand forged products on our website and enjoy other stylish customer homes on Instagram. Don’t forget to tag us in your own imagery on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook – we love seeing our products in their new homes. 

Working with us means joining an ever-growing family of talented artisan craftsmen and business influencers. Having such a cross section of skills and talents under one roof gives us the chance to offer a fantastically broad range of new challenges throughout our staff, and our exciting career development programmes are tailored to help you grow and make the most of every opportunity within the business.

At the heart of this company we still have a ‘roll your sleeves up and get it done’ mentality that means everyone pitches in and helps no matter what the challenge – there’s no corporate boardrooms here! People tend to stay…we have an amazingly high staff retention rate (averaging 90% annually) which is testament to a genuine belief that our business is only as strong as the links that bind it.

So, if you are looking for an interesting job that challenges and stretches you, in an environment where it’s not unusual to be greeted by a friendly dog (or two) at the door then we are the company for you! We are always keen to hear from new talent, even if your perfect role isn’t currently listed above.

If you would like to apply or request further details on any of the roles, please email us your CV to recruitment@jim-lawrence.co.uk

FacebookTwitterPinterestGoogle +Stumbleupon

Welcome to the Jim Lawrence Style Journal.

We are a British interiors company creating beautiful lighting, ironwork and home furnishings from our Suffolk workshop.

This is where we share ideas that we love, show sneak peeks behind the scenes of our brand and offer a unique insight into classic design.

jimlawrencemade

Jim Lawrence Lighting & Home
We’re absolutely in love with our new Pimlico sh We’re absolutely in love with our new Pimlico showroom, and if you’ve already made it to London and stepped through the doors…chances are you might be too💡 

Nestled between Westminster, Belgravia and Chelsea, our new Pimlico showroom sits in the heart of London’s iconic design district, renowned for its interiors, antiques, and craftsmanship.

Pop in to say hello, explore our beautifully crafted lighting and accessories, or pick up our latest brochure to browse at home. If you’re yet to visit, we can’t wait to welcome you.

For opening hours and more details, simply tap the reel via the link in our bio to visit our website.
Whether you order online or visit one of our showr Whether you order online or visit one of our showrooms, we offer complimentary samples of our fabrics for you to take home if you need some more time to decide before you buy.⁠
⁠
With a focus on natural fibres like silk, linen, wool, and pure cotton in a wide range of colours and patterns, there is plenty to choose from. If you'd like to browse our collections in person, find further information on locations and opening times at www.jim-lawrence.co.uk.⁠
⁠
Thank you @charlotte.sje, for capturing this cosy moment - a perfect setting for choosing fabrics and comparing linen textures with beautiful paint swatches.
Our handcrafted shelf brackets are a quiet testame Our handcrafted shelf brackets are a quiet testament to timeless craftsmanship and refined functionality. ⁠
⁠
Visually striking in their simplicity and elegance, the Brookland's come in two sizes and a choice of finishes, bringing varying levels of heritage style to the home.⁠
⁠
The larger sizes were designed and made specifically for our new space in London, created in response to a specific brief: to support substantial weight without compromising on looks.⁠
⁠
Tap the images via the link in our bio to shop.
A Jim Lawrence conduit kit offers a clever lightin A Jim Lawrence conduit kit offers a clever lighting solution for indoors and out.⁠
⁠
Transform unsightly wiring into a stylish feature by connecting wall lights, pendants, sockets, and switches when internal wiring isn’t an option.⁠
⁠
Its universal size is designed to work seamlessly with our full range of conduit components and a curated selection of Jim Lawrence lights. Tap these images via the link in our bio to discover all the components you need to create your own kit.
Whether you’re unwinding at home this bank holid Whether you’re unwinding at home this bank holiday or exploring new places over the weekend, it’s the perfect time to discover our latest brochure.⁠
⁠
Packed with inspiring designs and innovative solutions, it’s your go-to guide for elevating any space. Browse the pages online from the comfort of your home, or visit us in person at our Suffolk, Bath, or London showrooms to experience our collections up close.⁠
⁠
Kindly note, we will be closed on Bank Holiday Monday, but look forward to welcoming you again soon.
Step inside the beautiful home of @tanyaburr.⁠
⁠
Featuring our lighting and accessories throughout, Tanya has masterfully crafted a relaxed yet lived-in look. Thoughtfully selected vintage-inspired pieces echo the property's era, while made-to-measure custom fittings and a soothing palette of calming colours come together to create a family home that feels both comfortable and effortlessly elegant.⁠
⁠
Captured beautifully by @dean.hearne for @houseandgardenuk, Tanya's home is a lovely harmonisation of thoughtful design and personal style.
Outdoor wall lighting not only enhances the charac Outdoor wall lighting not only enhances the character of your home but also improves visibility and security after dark. It’s a vital addition that shouldn’t be an afterthought, but rather an extension of your interior style.⁠
⁠
With its graceful swan neck arm and rich aged brass patina, the Granary makes a beautiful statement beside front doors, on exterior walls, or lighting up outbuildings. One of our most popular outdoor lights in Antiqued Brass, we've added a Matt Black version for those who prefer a more sleek, contemporary option for modern exteriors.⁠
⁠
Tap the images via the link in our bio to shop the brand-new look.
With the opening of our new London showroom, we wa With the opening of our new London showroom, we wanted to highlight some of our other beautiful locations and the inspiration they’ve brought to our collections.⁠
⁠
Our very first showroom sits beside our workshops in Hadleigh, an historic market town in Suffolk. Surrounded by the rolling countryside of the River Brett valley, Hadleigh is known for its rich heritage and character. The town is home to over 240 listed buildings, many of them timber-framed from the 15th century: the kind of architecture that has long influenced our period lighting designs.⁠
⁠
It’s a fitting location for where our story began, showcasing traditional craftsmanship and enduring design. We’re proud of the places that shape our work, and we look forward to welcoming you to your nearest showroom.⁠
⁠
Find us on Lady Lane just off the A1071 Ipswich Road. Visit our website for further details and opening times.
Your front door isn’t just an entryway, but an i Your front door isn’t just an entryway, but an introduction. ⁠
⁠
Thank you Eilidh of @revamping_the_edwardian for sharing your magnificent home entrance, featuring antiqued brass details from us, and the rich Preference Red of @farrowandball. We love how the delicate florals soften the bold character of the stonework.⁠
⁠
Create a lasting first impression with our beautifully crafted detailing - tap this image via the link in our bio to shop more Jim Lawrence door furniture.
Bedside lighting is an essential detail that blend Bedside lighting is an essential detail that blends comfort, utility, and beauty.

We design and make a variety of adjustable wall lights that allow you to direct the light where you need it most, making the best of your bedroom space. The Salthouse is a small but mighty option. Packed with industrial charm, its dainty silhouette and thoughtful detailing make it a quiet statement piece, wonderful for enhancing small bedsides with a touch of rusticity and perfect paired with a vintage-inspired bulb.

Tap this reel via the link in our bio to explore more adjustable options 💡
Never underestimate the power of simple, elegant d Never underestimate the power of simple, elegant design.⁠
⁠
A beautifully crafted fabric lampshade shade gently filters light, offers subtle texture, and allows for pops of colour or contrasting tones to suit your existing interior scheme.⁠
⁠
Available in a selection of our most popular fabrics, our new 40cm Wide Cone Shades can be made in a lamp base fitting or pendant option to create the look you love.⁠ Swipe to enjoy our Porter Table Lamp, Pendant Lamp Holder, and Harleston Table Lamp, each paired with crisp Cream Killowen Linen.
With the opening of our new London showroom, we wa With the opening of our new London showroom, we wanted to shine a light on our other beautiful locations and the inspiration they've brought to our collection.⁠
⁠
Our second showroom, situated on Bath’s famous Walcot Street, inspired the creation of our elegant Walcot Pendant. Bath’s iconic Georgian architecture is known for its graceful lines and balanced proportions which heavily influenced this bestselling design. The hand-blown, dome-shaped glass is our nod to the bell jars once found in Georgian entrance halls - perfect for complementing more decorative interiors with its refined simplicity.⁠
⁠
Walcot Street itself, an historic artisan quarter, remains a vibrant hub of creativity, filled with independent shops, galleries, restaurants, and makers.⁠
⁠
You’ll find everything from antique mirrors to paints and carpets. Don't miss the lively Saturday flea market just down the road, and be sure to stop by and see us at 112–114 Walcot Street.
Corners of our new London showroom.⁠ ⁠ Located Corners of our new London showroom.⁠
⁠
Located in the thriving neighbourhood of Pimlico, nestled between Westminster, Belgravia and Chelsea, the showroom is in the heart of the Pimlico Road Design District - known for its rich concentration of antiques and interior design shops.⁠
⁠
Find us at number 94 and drop by to say hello, browse our stunning collection of beautifully handcrafted lighting and home fittings, or simply pick up our latest brochure to delve into at home.
Drenched in deep burgundy, this kitchen balances b Drenched in deep burgundy, this kitchen balances bold design with everyday practicality. Our Club wall light proves time and time again that atmosphere and performance can harmonise in the home.⁠
⁠
Thank you @ashmazzina for revealing your exquisite new space. The warm, focused glow of a solid brass light creates an inviting setting without losing the precision needed for tasking in a kitchen. To get the look, tap this image via the link our bio to shop our full Club collection.⁠
⁠
The new Jim Lawrence London showroom is officially The new Jim Lawrence London showroom is officially OPEN.

We are proud to join London’s most iconic design district with a new showroom that celebrates manufacturing in England with our classic lighting and home design.

Visit us at 94 Pimlico Road, SW1W 8PL. We look forward to welcoming you through the doors!

For opening times and further information, please tap this reel via the link in our bio to visit our website.
Designer Sean Symington began his career in Toront Designer Sean Symington began his career in Toronto, completing a Bachelor of Arts from Ryerson University, School of Interior Design. Now living in Bath with a business based in the beautiful Cotswolds town of Tetbury, Sean’s style is influenced by classic architecture and proportions, bold colour combinations, and a playful whimsy which keeps every space interesting.⁠
⁠
Tap the 'On the blog 🏡' button via the link in our bio to read our interview with Sean about how he has fostered this signature look and the places that inspire it.⁠
⁠
Images from @chriswakefield.photography.
Sometimes it’s the little things that make a roo Sometimes it’s the little things that make a room feel like home, like a stack of books, a vase of garden stems, or a comfy cushion.⁠
⁠
But the real impact - the element that truly defines a space - almost always comes from the lighting.⁠
⁠
This cosy corner from @thedentalbarns makes their business feel as welcoming as a sitting room at home. Gently lit by our Brooke for a calm glow, this clever lighting choice softens the edges and leaves a lovely lasting impression for when you're just passing through.
Our Killarney and Galway linens translate beautifu Our Killarney and Galway linens translate beautifully into the inviting shape of a plump cushion cover. The natural weight and drape of these fabrics is perfect for offering both comfort and character in green or indigo blue - made for layering on sofas or adding colour to a neutral bedspread.

Discover our full range of designs and colours on our website or within our showroom, with a special focus on natural fibres like silk, linen, wool, and pure cotton.

Choose from our wide range of existing looks or fill out a bespoke cushion form to customise your own. If you need a little more time to decide, select a fabric swatch directly from our website or give us a call on 01473 826685 and we’ll send them straight to your door.
A perfect addition for the dining room, candleligh A perfect addition for the dining room, candlelight can help set the mood from dawn until dinnertime.⁠
⁠
Swipe for @eliskasharp 's daytime look, proof the Hurricane Sconce holds it own even without a burning wick. Shop the sconce via the link in our bio.
A closer look at our latest fabric collection in g A closer look at our latest fabric collection in gorgeous greens, each ready to refresh your home for the summer and beyond.⁠
⁠
With a focus on vivid but calming colour palettes, high-quality materials, and meticulous craftsmanship, each cushion cover, lampshade, and curtain in these beautiful fabrics is made by us in our Suffolk workshops.⁠
⁠
From left to right: Cow Parsley in new Hedge Green, Waterford Linen in Green, and the brand-new Norwood in Green & Gold.⁠
⁠
Tap the 'Discover new arrivals' button via the link in our bio to shop these cut lengths, or choose from our selection of cushions and lampshades to accessorise your home.
Follow us!

Categories

  • Beautiful Homes
  • Behind the Name
  • Made By Us
  • Meet The Team
  • Our Showrooms
  • Spotlight On

“Nothing similar is quite the same”

© 2021 copyright Jim Lawrence // All rights reserved // Privacy Policy
Jim Lawrence